3D Input Device Control Dial for Precise Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3D input devices are inadequate for precise control of objects in space, as they rely on speed control methods that are inaccurate for pinpoint positioning and require user familiarity with the device's behavior, making them unsuitable for fine control tasks like robot operation.
Innovation Solution
A 3D input device with a manually operable 3D input element and an additional control dial that allows for translational and rotary control inputs, enabling precise position control by converting rotational movements into linear movements, with adjustable sensitivity to facilitate accurate object positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If speed control method is used in 3D input device, then the device can control object movement speed, but the positioning precision deteriorates making it unsuitable for fine control tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control mode switching that allows the system to transition between speed control and position control modes. The control unit dynamically adjusts the control algorithm based on the operational context, enabling the device to provide both rapid movement capability and precise positioning accuracy as needed for different task requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from speed-based to position-based control. By implementing position control where the control signal directly corresponds to target position rather than movement speed, the system achieves precise positioning capability while maintaining the ability to control movement characteristics through the positioning framework
2Adaptability or versatility
If 3D input element is used for control, then the device offers comprehensive spatial control capability, but the control precision deteriorates for fine positioning tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control functionality by providing multiple independent control elements: a 3D input element for coarse spatial positioning and a control dial for fine precision adjustment. Each element handles a different aspect of control, with the control dial providing high-precision rotational input that can be applied to any of the three spatial axes, thereby achieving both comprehensive spatial control and fine positioning precision
3Reliability
If user must learn device behavior for accurate control, then the device can be operated, but the ease of operation deteriorates requiring extensive training
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a control system that is intuitive and self-explanatory, where the control elements behave in expected physical ways. The control dial provides direct rotational control that naturally maps to spatial adjustments, and the position control mode automatically calculates target positions without requiring users to learn complex speed-time relationships. The system serves itself by providing obvious, logical control behavior that matches user expectations
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a 3D input device (1) for controlling the position of an object (8, 14) in space, comprising a manually operable 3D input element (3), at which input element control demands in three spatial coordinates can be input, and a control dial (4), which generates an output signal dependent on the rotational angle when rotated. According to the invention, the 3D input device (1) comprises a control unit (21) which moves the object (8, 14) in space depending on the rotary movement executed at the control dial (4).